Outlook

Even with proper wound care, a permanent deformity of the nail is not uncommon. The nail will grow back, but it may have a groove or dent in it.

If part of the fleshy part of the finger was lost, a hook nail may result. This occurs when the nail grows in a hook over the end of the finger or toe. This can sometimes be corrected later with plastic surgery.

If the nail was removed, or if there is a large nail bruise, then the injured nail will probably fall off as a new nail grows back. It will take four to six months for a new fingernail to grow back, and 12 months for a new toenail.

Infection can occur. This is more common with bite injuries or contaminated wounds. Infection is also a risk for people with diabetes or AIDS, those undergoing chemotherapy, those with poor circulation due to any reason, or those who have other problems that may decrease the ability to fight infection.